Scotland has always boasted of having a different culture from its neighbor England. Current constituent nation of the United Kingdom, it was a separate nation until 1770, when the Act of Union with Great Britain was signed. English rule has always been a source of discontent for the Scots, who have struggled for centuries to keep their culture and traditions intact.
In fact, they are the only ones in the United Kingdom that maintain their own independent legal, ecclesiastical and educational system. Despite the independence movements that have been ongoing since the 19th century, the Scottish people finally decided to continue as a constituent state after the 2014 referendum. Still, it is clear that the land of the Loch Ness monster, the plaid kilts, bagpipes and haggis (Scottish national dish) have their own identity and their particular way of seeing the world, and their popular prove it. In Dario Feminine we introduce you to some Scottish proverbs with meaning for a life full of harmony.
The best Scottish proverbs with their interpretation
1You lie for me, and I will swear by you
Scottish loyalty can be such that lying can become a reason for appreciation and friendship. Of course, it all depends on each situation.
2Even the worst role needs to be well played.
In life we play a role, and although sometimes we have moments that we would not like to experience, we have to play that role and move forward.
3May the saddest day of your not be worse than the happiest day of your past.
A Scottish proverb used to wish a loved one good luck. It’s very pretty, isn’t it?
4There is no medicine for fear
right! Fear must be faced from the inside, with nothing but ourselves to overcome it.
5Never let your feet get ahead of your shoes
This wise Scottish proverb teaches that you should not get ahead of yourself in life, but be patient and bide your time with each step you take.
6A smile costs less than electricity and gives more light
It’s clear that this Scottish proverb is quite modern, but the truth is that it is absolutely right and we love it. A smile brightens anyone’s day.
7No good story is wasted, no matter how many times it is told
It is well known that Scots love to tell a good story, as is often portrayed in the Outlander series, which begins its story in Scotland.
8Be fair to everyone, but don’t trust everyone
Just because you’re a fair person doesn’t mean you’re innocent and have to believe everyone and everything you’re told, right?
9Drink because you are happy, not because you are miserable.
A great piece of advice, drinking when you are sad can end very, very badly.
10Better to bend than break
You don’t always have to be so drastic in life, sometimes things may go awry and you have to set limits, but you don’t have to go to extremes.
Eleven No matter how good the cradle is, better is good upbringing
It doesn’t matter where you come from or where your family comes from, what matters is the love with which you have been raised and the education that they have been able to offer you with all their hearts. We must be proud of our roots.
12A shared joy is doubled, while a shared sorrow is halved.
When we share with others there are always benefits, both in the joys and in the sadness. For this reason, it is so important to open our hearts with the right people.
13Beware of the one who is too inclined to do favors and offer his friendship, since one day he will demand his retribution from you.
Especially with people who are not your true friends, this Scottish proverb may be a bit suspicious, but after all, sometimes it happens that way.
14Don’t marry for money, you can get it cheaper on a loan
Marriage of convenience can never go well. This Scottish proverb has it clear.
